Road contractors threaten Jubilee House protest over arrears
A group of contractors engaged in routine road maintenance activities across the country has warned of a possible protest at the Presidency as frustration grows over unpaid government obligations dating back several years.
The contractors, operating under the umbrella of the Single Man Contractors (SMC) Association, say they have exhausted numerous avenues in their attempts to secure payment for works completed on behalf of the Ghana Highway Authority, with some claims remaining unsettled since 2020.
Their threat comes at a time when concerns about flooding are mounting in several parts of the country following the onset of the rainy season, a period when maintenance of drains, gutters and road shoulders becomes particularly critical.
In a petition addressed to President John Dramani Mahama, the association appealed for urgent intervention, arguing that the prolonged non-payment has pushed many members into severe financial distress and undermined their ability to continue providing essential services.
“As single-man contractors, we undertook and completed the assigned work in good faith and according to the agreed terms. Despite several follow-ups with the Ghana Highway Authority, outstanding payment for the completed contract has still not been made,” the petition stated.
According to the contractors, the outstanding claims relate to certified works already executed and approved, yet payments have remained outstanding for years despite repeated engagements with relevant authorities.
The association noted that many of its members have struggled to meet financial obligations, maintain equipment and sustain their businesses as a result of the delays.
Members argue that the situation extends beyond their personal hardships, warning that continued neglect of routine maintenance contracts could have wider implications for road infrastructure and flood prevention efforts.
“The continued delay in settling this obligation has caused serious financial hardship and affected both our livelihoods and ability to meet other commitments,” the petition added.
The contractors disclosed that they had previously submitted a petition to the Presidency in March seeking intervention but say no lasting resolution has emerged from those efforts.
As frustration deepens, the group says it is considering a peaceful picketing exercise at Jubilee House if steps are not taken to address the arrears.
The planned demonstration, they say, is intended to draw national attention to what they describe as years of unfulfilled payment obligations and to press for a clear roadmap for settling the outstanding debts.
For now, the association is urging government to engage with affected contractors and bring closure to a matter that has lingered for more than half a decade.
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